B1adjective5K

UK//priˈɒkjʊpaɪd//US//priˈɑk.jʊ.paɪd//

Meaning of Preoccupied

Deeply absorbed in thought, often to the extent of being unaware of surroundings.

In simple words: Thinking about something too much and not able to focus on other things.

Preoccupied in a sentence

  • She seemed very preoccupied during the meeting, not responding to questions.
  • He is often so preoccupied with work that he forgets to eat lunch.
  • I noticed she was preoccupied while driving, not paying attention to the road.
  • His mind was preoccupied with thoughts of the upcoming exam.
  • They found her preoccupied with her favorite book and didn't want to be disturbed.

How to use Preoccupied

Use 'preoccupied' to describe someone who is distracted or absorbed by their thoughts. It is more appropriate in formal and neutral contexts than in casual speech.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of being so deep in thought you're 'pre' occupied to the exclusion of everything else.

Related words

Collocations with Preoccupied

  • preoccupied with thoughts
  • preoccupied by distractions
  • seemingly preoccupied

Synonyms for Preoccupied

  • absorbed
  • engrossed
  • lost
  • preoccupied with
  • distracted

Opposites of Preoccupied

  • unconcerned
  • distracted
  • disinterested

Common mistakes with Preoccupied

  • Confusing with 'occupied' - 'preoccupied' means distracted, while 'occupied' means busy.
  • Saying 'preoccupied with' instead of 'preoccupied by' in some contexts.
  • Using it to describe physical state rather than mental distraction.

Preoccupied appears in

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Frequently asked questions about Preoccupied

What does Preoccupied mean?

Thinking about something too much and not able to focus on other things.

What is the definition of Preoccupied?

Deeply absorbed in thought, often to the extent of being unaware of surroundings.

How do you use Preoccupied in a sentence?

She seemed very preoccupied during the meeting, not responding to questions.

Can you give another example of Preoccupied?

He is often so preoccupied with work that he forgets to eat lunch.

What are synonyms for Preoccupied?

Common alternatives include absorbed, engrossed, lost, preoccupied with, distracted.

What is the opposite of Preoccupied?

Opposite meanings include unconcerned, distracted, disinterested.

What words go with Preoccupied?

It commonly pairs with preoccupied with thoughts, preoccupied by distractions, seemingly preoccupied.

What are common mistakes when using Preoccupied?

Confusing with 'occupied' - 'preoccupied' means distracted, while 'occupied' means busy. Saying 'preoccupied with' instead of 'preoccupied by' in some contexts. Using it to describe physical state rather than mental distraction.

How do you pronounce Preoccupied?

US: //priˈɑk.jʊ.paɪd//, UK: //priˈɒkjʊpaɪd//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Preoccupied?

Use 'preoccupied' to describe someone who is distracted or absorbed by their thoughts. It is more appropriate in formal and neutral contexts than in casual speech.

What CEFR level is Preoccupied?

"Preoccupied" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.